Writing
Dr. Bones has written a number of Bible studies, essays, articles. Her published works are listed below.
The Book of Joshua
The Book of Joshua is the 12th in a series of in-depth, inductive Bible studies designed to be used by small groups or individuals. Discipleship resources created by CrossWise Living Ministries are designed to promote intergenerational ministry and mentoring relationships.
About the study
The Book of Joshua: An invitation to trust in God’s promises and enter His rest. “Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9
From God’s opening charge to Joshua to “be strong and courageous,” to Joshua’s final triumphant declaration, “Deep in your hearts you know that every promise of the Lord has come true,” the book of Joshua tells the story of God’s faithfulness and lovingkindness as he leads his people to take possession of the Promised Land. This 13-week in-depth study of the book of Joshua contains lessons in leadership, training for transition, and an invitation to enter God’s rest. Those who “study this book of instruction continually…who meditate on it day and night” and then obey its principles will find release from chains of fear and discouragement as they experience deeper faith and trust in God.
The Book of Joshua
Publications
Elijah & Elisha: Holy Friendship, Holy Fire
Elijah & Elisha: Holy Friendship, Holy Fire is the 11th in a series of in-depth, inductive Bible studies designed to be used by small groups or individuals. Discipleship resources created by CrossWise Living Ministries are designed to promote intergenerational ministry and mentoring relationships.
About the study
“Then the word of the Lord came to Elijah…So he did what the Lord had told him.” 1 Kings 17:2,5
Whether he was boldly confronting the evil King Ahab, hiding at the Kerith Brook, or triumphantly calling down the fire of judgment on Mt. Carmel, Elijah’s obedience to God was unwavering. Declaring that the Lord God of Israel was alive, he fearlessly challenged Ahab and Jezebel to repent of having led the nation astray through idolatry. Elijah’s constant awareness of the presence of God enabled him to move in power and prevail in prayer. He had no doubt that God was with him: with him in the wilderness, with him in the fire, with him in the gentle whisper, with him in his time of despair, and with him in the gift of Elisha’s friendship. This 8-week study of the prophets Elijah and Elisha will help you grow in faith as you follow their example in courageously speaking and acting on the Word of God.
Elijah & Elisha: Holy Friendship, Holy Fire
Publications
Grace & Peace: The Last Letters of Paul
Grace & Peace: The Last Letters of Paul is the 10th in a series of in-depth, inductive Bible studies designed to be used by small groups or individuals. Discipleship resources created by CrossWise Living Ministries are designed to promote intergenerational ministry and mentoring relationships.
About the study
Philippians, Colossians, Ephesians, and Philemon-the prison epistles-contain some of the most beautiful and memorable language in the Bible. The Apostle Paul wrote these joyful and encouraging letters from a place of deep suffering in a Roman prison in order to remind believers of the rich spiritual blessings that are ours in Christ.
This 10-week in-depth study of the last letters of Paul focuses on the gospel and the great doctrines of the Christian faith. We will experience God’s grace and peace in increasing measure as we learn practical ways to walk worthy of our high calling.
Grace & Peace: The Last Letters of Paul
Publications
The Life & Writings of Solomon Bible Study
The Life & Writings of Solomon is the ninth in a series of in-depth, inductive Bible studies designed to be used by small groups or individuals. Discipleship resources created by CrossWise Living Ministries are designed to promote intergenerational ministry and mentoring relationships.
About the study
“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” Proverbs 9:10
God appeared to Solomon during the night in a dream, and told him to ask for whatever he wanted. Pleased with his request for a discerning heart so he might govern well and distinguish between right and wrong, God gave him exceedingly deep insight, and understanding beyond measure.
Solomon’s great intellect is fully on display in the Old Testament wisdom books of Proverbs, Ecclesiastes, and Song of Solomon, but his fall from the heights of anointing by God to the depths of idolatry was cataclysmic. How did the man to whom God gave incomparable wealth, riches and fame, as well as matchless wisdom, come to build his house like a foolish man, not on a rock but on sand?
This 16-week study of the life and writings of Solomon will show us practical ways to live our lives with spiritual insight and discernment. We will also observe the perils of drifting into a life of disobedience that leads to cynicism and unbelief. God lets us choose our path: it is up to us to study God’s Word in order to choose wisely.
The Life & Writings of Solomon Bible Study
Publications
The Life & Psalms of David Bible Study
The Life & Psalms of David is the eighth in a series of in-depth, inductive Bible studies designed to be used by small groups or individuals. Discipleship resources created by CrossWise Living Ministries are designed to promote intergenerational ministry and mentoring relationships.
About the study
“But I will sing of your strength, in the morning I will sing of your love; for you are my fortress, my refuge in times of trouble.” Psalm 59:16-17
Both a mighty warrior and a skillful poet-musician, King David wrote almost half the book of Psalms, the worship manual that has given expression to the praises and laments of God’s people throughout the generations. Although David is described in the Bible as “… a man after God’s own heart,” Scripture does not conceal the fact that he was deeply flawed and sinful.
In this 16-week study, we’ll take an in-depth look at the Old Testament record of David’s life along with the corresponding Psalms he wrote as he experienced life’s trials and sorrows, defeats and victories. We will learn from his example how to be both spiritual warriors and faithful worshippers of the Living God.
The Life & Psalms of David Bible Study
Publications
The Life & Letters of Peter Bible Study
The Life & Letters of Peter is the seventh in a series of in-depth, inductive Bible studies designed to be used by small groups or individuals. Discipleship resources created by CrossWise Living Ministries are designed to promote intergenerational ministry and mentoring relationships.
About the Study
Where can we find hope in uncertain times?
“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.” 1 Peter 1:3
In order to flourish as God intends, we must “grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 3:28). This 3-part, 20-lesson Bible study explores the Father’s grace and mercy in the life one who was as flawed and fragile as we understand ourselves to be. The forgiveness of our Savior and the transforming power of the Holy Spirit are clearly seen in the vivid portrait we find of the great Apostle Peter in the gospels, the book of Acts, and finally, the letters he wrote to bring practical wisdom and encouragement to the church.
The Life & Letters of Peter Bible Study
Publications
Ezra & Nehemiah
Ezra & Nehemiah is the sixth in a series of in-depth, inductive Bible studies designed to be used by small groups or individuals. Discipleship resources created by CrossWise Living Ministries are designed to promote intergenerational ministry and mentoring relationships.
About the Study
Are you struggling with discouragement or anxiety about the future? Does it sometimes feel like foundations are crumbling and the world is falling into ruins around you?
Perhaps you wonder if God’s promises still hold true or if He’s even with you in the midst of your trial.
If so, the Old Testament books of Ezra and Nehemiah are for you! Learn how the Lord used two courageous, obedient, servant leaders to rebuild Jerusalem—the city and its walls—and restore the hearts of the people to their God. The timely truths found in God’s Word will encourage you that you’re never alone in your struggles, and reassure you that God never forgets His promises.
Ezra & Nehemiah
Publications
Jesus’ Farewell: Love to the Uttermost
Jesus’ Farewell: Love to the Uttermost is the fifth in a series of in-depth, inductive Bible studies designed to be used by small groups or individuals. Discipleship resources created by CrossWise Living Ministries are designed to promote intergenerational ministry and mentoring relationships.
A study of John 13-17 (The Upper Room Discourse), Jesus’ Farewell: Love to the Uttermost is an in-depth discipleship tool designed to serve growing Christians who want keep going deeper in faith.
Jesus’ Farewell: Love to the Uttermost
Publications
Creative Conversations with God
Creative Conversations with God: The Art of Bible Journaling workbook will equip you with a variety of simple visual techniques to enhance your quiet time. You will grow in your knowledge, understanding, and enjoyment of the Bible as you use these fun, creative activities to slow down and enjoy your relationship with God.
Creative Conversations with God
Publications
Walk: The Letters of John Bible Study
Walk: The Letters of John is the third in a series of in-depth, inductive Bible studies designed to be used by small groups or individuals. Discipleship resources created by CrossWise Living Ministries are designed to promote intergenerational ministry and mentoring relationships.
Practical, encouraging, and inspirational, Walk: The Letters of John is a 7-week, interactive, intergenerational Bible study in the New Testament books of 1, 2 and 3 John. Designed for individuals or groups of all ages, this inductive study includes optional activities for mentoring and spiritual formation.
Walk: The Letters of John Bible Study
Publications
The Book of Mark Bible Study
CrossWise Living: The Book of Mark is the second in a series of in-depth, inductive Bible studies designed to be used by small groups or individuals. Discipleship resources created by CrossWise Living Ministries are designed to promote intergenerational ministry and mentoring relationships.
Discover the heart, mind and strength of Jesus Christ, the Son of God, in this inductive, interactive 10 Lesson Bible Study useful for both men and women. Groups of all ages will be inspired by this valuable resource for fostering cross-generational relationships.
The Book of Mark Bible Study
Publications
Living CrossWise: Hope and Help for Navigating Transition
Gail’s 12 week Bible study Living CrossWise: Hope & Help for Navigating Transition combines metaphors from sailing with inspirational stories about life’s transitions and topical Bible study to promote cross-generational mentoring relationships.
Everyone faces difficult life transitions on a regular basis. Living CrossWise teaches readers how to harness the power of the winds of change that propel us on a zigzag course through life’s transitions. Inspirational personal narratives, in-depth Bible studies, and pertinent discussion questions illustrate the three essential spiritual practices of Inward Inventory, Pinpoint Prayer, and CrossWise Counsel.
The cross provides a pattern for the three kinds of questions we must ask to successfully navigate transition. The vertical plank encourages us to look to God for specific guidance (Pinpoint Prayer) while we engage in disciplined self-reflection about the practical details of our lives (Inward Inventory). The crosspiece shows us the value of living life with arms wide open to the input of both the generation preceding and the one following us (CrossWise Counsel). The importance of cross-generational mentoring relationships is underscored in this interactive women’s ministry resource.
Women’s ministries will use this book as a tool for mentoring programs and Bible study groups. Because it is designed to promote and facilitate cross-generational mentoring relationships, its range of usefulness will extend from high school students through senior citizens. The biggest age group, Baby Boomers, is now heading into retirement and seeking opportunities to invest in the lives of young people—this book will provide the structure and motivation to help them attain their potential at this influential stage in life.
Dr. Bones and her ministry has been commended by Christian authors, leaders and ministry directors including Pam Farrel, Wayne Rice, Leanna Tankersley, and Virginia Friesen.
Living CrossWise: Navigating Transition Bible Study
Publications
The Book of Ruth Bible Study
CrossWise Living: The Book of Ruth is the first in a series of in-depth, inductive Bible studies designed to be used by small groups or individuals. Discipleship resources created by CrossWise Living Ministries are designed to promote intergenerational ministry and mentoring relationships.
Women of all ages will be inspired by this 5-week, interactive study of the Book of Ruth, one of the Bible’s most beautiful stories of loyalty, love, and redemption.
The Book of Ruth Bible Study
Publications
Bestowing the Blessing: Practical Strategies for Christian Educators
Christian teachers in the public schools who wish to improve student motivation and outcomes can effectively apply the strategies suggested by Smalley and Trent (1986) in The Blessing. Smalley and Trent set forth a five-fold plan for parents to bless their children with unconditional love and acceptance. The techniques of using meaningful touch, speaking words of honor, encouragement, and affirmation, and making an active commitment to student success are supported both by Scripture and research in educational best practices.
Read “Bestowing the Blessing” Online
Info
Christian Perspectives in Education (CPE) is an online, peer-reviewed journal that focuses upon Christian perspectives in theory, research, and practices of education.
Christian Perspectives in Education is published by Liberty University’s School of Education. All views and opinions expressed within in the published articles are those of the author(s) and do not represent the views and/or opinion of Liberty University, the School of education, the CPE journal, or the editors. Published articles and all information within the publications are solely the responsibility of the author of the article.
Bestowing the Blessing…
Publications
The Six Pillars of Character in 21st Century Newbery Award Books
The purpose of this qualitative content analysis was to determine how the The Six Pillars of Character as defined by the Character Counts! Curriculum are exemplified in 21st century Newbery Award books (2000- 2010). A team of 5 reader/coders, all experienced educational professionals, examined each of the 11 titles in order to investigate opportunities to explore with students the Six Pillars values of caring, citizenship, fairness, trustworthiness, respect, and responsibility. Data collection consisted of frequency counts for positive and negative examples of the characteristics. Coders also responded with rich description in their evaluation of themes and the suitability of each book for use in character education. In the report of findings, for each novel a focused summary is provided that references character themes in the text. Interviews with the books’ authors, as well as recommendations for classroom use by the team of expert readers supply additional practical resources for classroom teachers using literature to teach character education. The researcher sought to answer the overarching questions: Are 21st century Newbery Award books valuable resources for use in character education? Do these books provide opportunities to explore universal values defined as the Six Pillars of Character in the Character Counts! Curriculum?
